August 28, 2024 | Reading Time: 6 min Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can feel like a whirlwind of paperwork and expenses to file through. If you’re injured, one of the most important things you’ll want to consider is filing a claim to recover damages.
Unfortunately, the process of filing a car accident claim and receiving the compensation you deserve isn’t always straightforward. This comprehensive guide provides you with strategic insights on how to improve your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injury claim.
Understanding the Basics of Car Accident Claims
Typically, after a car accident, an individual seeks compensation through an insurance provider, either their own or the at-fault party’s. The claim can help cover medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and sometimes pain and suffering. However, insurance companies are oftentimes more interested in protecting their bottom line than in ensuring victims receive full restitution. As such, they employ tactics to minimize payouts, making it imperative for claimants to be proactive and prepared.
1. Document Everything
The foundation of a strong car accident claim is documentation, or evidence, from the accident. Immediately after the accident occurs, you should do your best to collect as much evidence as possible. Documentation from the accident scene can include:
- Photo and video of your vehicle, the other vehicle involved, road conditions, and the surrounding scene of the accident.
- The other driver’s information including their name, contact information, and insurance documentation.
- Witness information, as they will be able to corroborate your claim with the insurance company.
- A police report from the responding officer. If a police officer does not appear at the scene of your accident, you can request a police report within 10 days of your accident.
Additionally, keep all medical records, receipts, and a detailed account of your injuries and treatment progress. Documenting missed days at work and how the injuries have impacted your daily life will be beneficial when claiming lost wages and damages for pain and suffering. The more detailed your evidence, the harder it becomes for insurance companies to dispute your claim.
2. Seek Medical Attention
After a car accident, always seek immediate medical attention, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, particularly those involving the neck and spine, may not manifest symptoms immediately. By getting a prompt medical evaluation, you ensure that all injuries are identified, treated, and officially documented.
Having a medical record linking your injuries directly to the accident is vital to your claim. Insurance companies often question the severity of an injury or argue that it was pre-existing. A medical report serves as an authoritative document that reinforces the legitimacy of your injury claims.
3. Call an Experienced Car Accident Attorney
After a car accident, reaching out to an experienced car accident attorney can be the single most determining factor in maximizing your compensation. A seasoned accident attorney will be able to navigate any complexities that may arise during your claim, work to ensure all paperwork is filed on time, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and help ensure that your claim comprehensively reflects the economic and non-economic damages you’ve sustained.
An attorney’s involvement in your claim signals to insurance adjusters that you are serious about getting fair compensation and that you won’t be sidestepped by lowball offers or intimidated by legal jargon. Working with a well-respected attorney means that you’ll have an advocate who understands the nuances of personal injury law and who can fight for your rights effectively.
4. Avoid Social Media
In the age of social media, it’s common to share important moments of our lives to friends and family on the web. However, when it comes to car accident claims, it’s wise to keep any relevant information off the internet. Insurance companies often monitor the social media accounts of claimants in hopes of finding information that can be used against them. A seemingly innocent photo or comment about your condition or activities can be taken out of context and used to undermine your claim.
To protect the integrity of your case, refrain from posting any details or updates about the accident, your injuries, recoveries, or legal proceedings. Assume that anything and everything you post could potentially negatively impact your claim and act accordingly.
5. Don’t Settle for the First Offer
Insurance adjusters are known for presenting initial offers that are well below the actual value of the claim, just in hopes to settle the claim quickly and cheaply. They will often prey on the claimant’s presumed financial strains and desire for a speedy recovery to push a less-than-reasonable settlement. However, accepting this first offer can likely mean that you are forfeiting the compensation you truly deserve.
Remember, you are under no obligation to accept the first settlement offer from the insurance company. Take your time to evaluate the offer against the full extent of your damages and consult with an attorney before making any decisions. Oftentimes, once a settlement offer is agreed upon, you are not able to request additional compensation.
6. Negotiate for Fair Compensation
Effective negotiation is crucial in securing a fair settlement for your car accident claim. The negotiation process involves presenting a detailed calculation of your damages, which should include:
- Past and future medical costs
- Rehabilitation expenses
- Lost wages
- Decreased earning capacity
- Compensation for pain and suffering or emotional distress.
You or your attorney, if retained, will draft a compelling demand letter that outlines the particulars of the accident and the resulting damages. The letter should convey the depth of your hardship and clearly state the compensation sum you’re seeking. It’s another aspect of the claim process where having a car accident attorney is beneficial, due to their expertise in crafting such crucial documents and in conducting subsequent negotiations.
Get The Compensation You Deserve: Call Cellino Law
If you have been involved in a car accident and are seeking to maximize your compensation, you don’t navigate the challenging landscape alone. At Cellino Law, our attorneys have the experience, knowledge, and tools necessary to ensure you receive fair compensation from the insurance company. Contact Cellino Law to schedule a free consultation with a member of our legal team. Get in touch today at 888-888-8888 to discuss your case and take the first step towards the compensation you are entitled to.
Content checked by the personal injury attorney Ross Cellino. As a family man and a trial attorney, I pride myself on winning cases and serving the community. With over 35 years of experience, I understand the function of a jury, how juries arrive at conclusions, and the role that the jury plays in administering justice. I know how to win cases. You can find us in Manhattan, Buffalo, Melville, Rochester, Brooklyn, The Bronx, Queens and other locations throughout New York.